VIDEO: What Ipswich looks like from 2500 feet

Emma Clarke
Journalist
Emma has worked as a journalist in regional Queensland for four years, including Biloela and Rockhampton and most recently in Ipswich. Having previously covered the court and general news rounds, Emma is now the digital producer at the Queensland Times.

It's from 2500 feet above ground, with the day's first rays of sunshine streaming through the wicker basket keeping its guests safely secured and the crisp morning breeze interrupted only by the occasional blast of fire from over head.

The flight leaves the ground before sunrise.Emma Clarke

Hot air ballooning has been Graeme Day's passion for the last 25 years but it's not the thrill of floating through the sky suspended by a giant rainbow bubble that has him addicted.

"For me it's more personal, it's about sharing the experience of ballooning," he said from the air yesterday morning.

"I just love sharing it with people, sometimes it's a wedding, sometimes it's a birthday, sometimes it's a last wish for someone before they pass away.

"It's human moments and the celebration of life. Life is too short, you have to enjoy it and celebrate it but to share that experience with people in their lives is a privilege, that's why I love ballooning."

Mr Day was first introduced to hot air ballooning when travelling in France and said he brought his business, Floating Images Hot Air Ballooning Flights, to Ipswich 15 years ago to make the most of the region's picturesque scenery and inviting climate.

"For ballooning Ipswich is perfect, there is great scenery, great weather, it's got everything you need for ballooning," he said.

"You get to see the early morning sunrise, the dawn and the beautiful day coming up.

"Operating a balloon is a pretty unique experience, it doesn't have a motor so we have to work with mother nature and choosing the right spot to take off to see the best of the countryside safely."